Officer Kerrie Orozco, 29, who was killed in the line of duty, was helping serve a felony arrest warrant with the Metro Area Fugitive Task Force on a man wanted for first-degree assault in connection with a 2014 shooting.

Schmaderer said Sgt. Jeff Kopietz and Officer Robert Laney, who are assigned to the Metro Area Fugitive Task Force, were attempting to locate and arrest Marcus D. Wheeler, 26.

While Kopietz and Laney were watching the residence near 30th Street and Martin Avenue, additional officers arrived to assist in locating Wheeler. Among those officers were Jeff Shada and Kerrie Orozco.

Authorities said Laney first spotted a suspect matching Wheeler's description on foot near Vane Street and Martin Avenue.

Wheeler was walking in a grassy area, and Laney radioed that he had the suspect in sight.

Schmaderer said Laney parked his vehicle, which was unmarked but equipped with red and blue lights that were active at the time.

Schmaderer said Laney got out of his vehicle and called Wheeler by name, ordering him to stop. Wheeler responded by firing at least three gunshots at the officer. Laney did not have a chance to return fire, Schmaderer said.

The police chief said Wheeler then fled north, and Laney radioed that shots had been fired.

Kopietz drove to the area and found Erica Coppage-Williams and a small child at a nearby home, yelling at her and motioning for her to come toward him and away from the home.

Police said Coppage-Williams appeared agitated and stressed as she yelled back at him.

Kopietz then observed Wheeler appear from the back of the home and walk across the driveway.

Police gave loud, verbal commands for Wheeler to stop and get on the ground. Schmaderer said Wheeler instantly turned toward Kopietz and took a crouched position and began firing at the officer.

Schmaderer said Kopietz returned fire, and other officers arrived to assist.

After a second round of gunfire, Officer Orozco yelled out that she had been hit.

Schmaderer said only the only officer to fire his weapon was Kopietz, and that all the officers were equipped with Glock 45 handguns.

Orozco suffered a lethal gunshot wound to her upper chest area, just above her ballistic vest line, which went through her body. A bullet recovered from the rear of her vest matched the semi-automatic weapon Wheeler was using, police said.

Orozco and Wheeler were taken in extremely critical condition to CHI Health Creighton University Medical Center, where they later died.

A trauma surgeon said doctors did everything they could to save them, but both ultimately succumbed to their injuries.

Wheeler was a convicted felon and a known gang member, according to police.

Schmaderer said Orozco gave birth prematurely to a child in February and that the baby is scheduled to be released from the hospital this week. Orozco also has two step-children.

Thirteen officers and 11 witnesses have been questioned in connection with the investigation.

While a grand jury will be convened to investigate, Schmaderer said the actions of his officers were justified.

"They were attempting to apprehend a dangerous suspect who engaged them in gunfire on at least two occasions," Schmaderer said.

Police announced on Thursday that Coppage-Williams,24, was arrested at the scene and booked on counts of aiding in the consummation of a felony, obstructing officers and disorderly conduct.

Gov. Pete Ricketts issued the following statement:

"Susanne and I send our prayers and deepest sympathies to the family and colleagues of Officer Orozco. Today's tragic news is devastating to the law enforcement community and all Nebraskans. We must all ensure that Officer Orozco's sacrifice will never be forgotten."

Steve LeClair, president of the Omaha Professional Fire Fighters, issued the following statement:

"On behalf of the Omaha Professional Fire Fighters Association, Local 385, I would like to express our most sincere condolences to the Omaha Police Department, the Omaha Police Union, and the loved ones and family of Officer Kerrie Orozco, who was tragically killed in the line of duty this afternoon.Our police officers put their lives on the line for the citizens of Omaha every day, and we will always be proud to stand by their side and support their mission to provide excellence in public safety. We are extremely saddened by the tragedy of this loss, which will be felt by the community for many years to come.It is a sad day for our city, our police officers and all of the public safety officials who risk their lives to protect others. Please join us in fully supporting Officer Orozco's fellow officers and family as they mourn this tragic loss."

U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer issued the following statement:

“My thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Officer Kerrie Orozco after this terrible tragedy. Words cannot express my deep sadness. I join all Nebraskans in offering love and support at this difficult time.”

Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert issued the following statement:

"I am heartbroken by this incident, and it is a sad and tragic day for the brave men and women of the Omaha Police Department -- and for our city."

U.S. Rep. Brad Ashford issued the following statement:

"Ann and I extend our deepest condolences to Officer Kerrie Orozco's family, friends and fellow officers. She made the ultimate sacrifice serving our community. Officer Orozco will be remembered for her courage and dedication, putting the safety of her fellow Omahans before her own. We join the entire City of Omaha in mourning this tragic loss."